Tuesday, July 03, 2012

Norwegian Breakaway's Ocean Blue

Geoffrey Zakarian, an accomplished chef who has presided over some of the country's top kitchens, was chosen to create and oversee the hottest seafood dining experience at sea…Ocean Blue by Geoffrey Zakarian. The restaurant, which will open on the Norwegian Breakaway when the ship launches in May, will utilize all of the same ingredients and techniques that Zakarian would employ in any of his renowned land based establishments.

Zakarian’s taste, style and passion for fine cuisine will be reflected in the dining room of Ocean Blue, as well as The Raw Bar, an adjacent bar highlighting crustaceans and wines by the glass. A more casual area, Ocean Blue on The Waterfront, will serve a simple, unfussy fare. Zakarian will take charge not only the menus, but also every aspect of his dining areas, from the uniforms to the glassware. On select sailings, Zakarian will also host meet-and-greets with Norwegian Breakaway guests, along with in-person cooking demonstrations and intimate cooking experiences for smaller groups.

“It is an unbelievably exciting prospect to create a concept for such a groundbreaking ship. I am nostalgic at heart, so the thought of making a modern experience that harkens to the age of steamship travel is just terrific,” said Geoffrey Zakarian. “I am planning, preparing and recruiting for this restaurant the same as if I were opening on land, and truly, I have been humbled and inspired by Norwegian's vision to elevate hospitality on the seas.”

For those of you that may be unfamiliar with Zakarian, his rise to culinary prominence began at Le Cirque, some 30 years ago, where he took his first job in the kitchen. Since those early days, Zakarian’s name has been linked to legendary restaurants around the world. Recently, he emerged victorious in the 4th season of Food Network’s “The Next Iron Chef, Super Chefs”. He now appears regularly on “Iron Chef America”, demonstrating a razor-sharp knowledge of culinary techniques in this fast-paced cooking competition. The Norwegian Breakaway will be the largest ship ever to homeport in New York City. The 4,000 passenger vessel will debut in early May 2013, when she will begin weekly summer seven-day cruises to Bermuda."